Event

Master Beekeeping Apprentice Level Course

Bee Part of the Solution!

Become a Master Beekeeper and help keep local pollinators thriving.

Research into the rapid worldwide decline of honey bees has finally yielded results. Recent studies indicate a 'perfect storm' conspired to decimate honeybee stocks. Data suggests Colony Collapse Disorder was the result of a recently evolved partnership between a virus that attacts bee DNA and a common hive fungus. Now, scientists can start developing a treatment regimen that enables bees to resist this virulant attack.

To help rebuild our resource of local pollinators, Washington State University Snohomish County Extension and Beez Neez Apiary Supply are teaming up to sponsor three sessions of the popular apprentice level course in the Master Beekeeper Program. The five-week course provides a thorough introduction to beekeeping for novice beekeepers as well as a comprehensive refresher course for experienced apiculturists.

Designed to build basic beekeeping skills, topics to be covered include bee biology, equipment, seasonal management requirements, identification, and management of pests, as well as honey removal and processing. The overall focus will hone in on the unique challenges and benefits to beekeeping in the Pacific Northwest.

A workshop manual complements the lectures. Participants completing the five-week course and passing the Washington State Apprentice Beekeeper level exam (an open book test) will receive a certificate towards the Journey and Master Beekeeper levels of training.

Each session will be taught by local beekeeping professionals, WSU Snohomish County Extension entomologist Dave Pehling, and Jim Tunnell, owner of Beez Neez Apiary in Snohomish.